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The word burial comes from the Anglo-Saxon word birgan, meaning to conceal. The earliest archaeological evidence for the deliberate treatment of the dead is in the form of ancient burials. In some cultures, the dead were buried in cemeteries as it was illegal to bring the dead into cities.

Mexicans celebrate Los Dias de los Muertos (the Days of the Dead), on All Saints' Day, 1 November, and All Souls' Day, 2 November, each year. On these days, the souls of the dead, following the fragrant trail of the cempasúchil (marigold) petals, return to earth to spend time with their relatives.

For the Tiwi people of Bathurst and Melville Islands, Pukumani means taboo and applies to the funeral ceremonies, the possessions of the deceased, the close relatives of the deceased and the gravesite.

Throughout Madagascar, great significance is placed on ancestors, who watch over all aspects of daily life and ensure the continuity and unity of the family and community. Ancestor spirits reside in the north-east corner of the home and in the family tomb, reflecting a strong belief in life after

The Australian Museum respects and acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the First Peoples and Traditional Custodians of the land and waterways on which the Museum stands.
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We acknowledge Elders past, present and emerging.This website may contain names, images and voices of deceased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.